Toronto-based singer-songwriter Alex McCulloch returns with her self-titled album, Alex McCulloch, released in June 2025. This collection showcases her evolution as an artist, blending confessional songwriting with elements of folk, blues, and soul. The album offers a raw and intimate look into McCulloch’s world, marked by vivid storytelling and emotional depth.
Track by Track Insights
Empty House
The EP opens with a haunting meditation on loneliness. “Empty House” feels like stepping into a room once full of life that now echoes with silence. McCulloch’s vocals are delicate but piercing, layered over sparse acoustic guitar and subtle ambient textures. Lyrically, she captures that strange space between heartbreak and healing—reflecting on what remains when someone leaves, not just physically, but emotionally. It’s a beautifully understated introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the EP.
Lidstoner
Easily the most cryptic and experimental track on the record, “Lidstoner” leans into lyrical abstraction and sonic mood. There’s a dreamlike quality to it—both in the laid-back groove and the almost hypnotic vocal phrasing. McCulloch seems to be observing life from a distance here, possibly under the haze of memory or introspection. It’s one of those songs that reveals more with each listen, as layers of meaning unfold like a collage of past and present blurring together.
Gregory
This standout ballad centers on a character named Gregory—whether real or imagined is left open to interpretation. McCulloch paints a vivid portrait of someone haunted by their own decisions, and possibly addiction. It’s an emotionally rich song, carried by finger-picked guitar and a subtle rise in intensity as the story unfolds. Her lyrics are empathetic without romanticizing pain, making it feel more like a letter written in hindsight—honest, sad, and still full of love.
Drum Circle
Arguably the warmest moment on the EP, “Drum Circle” brings a sense of community and ritual into the fold. Musically, it’s more rhythmic than other tracks, with layered percussion giving it a grounded, earthy pulse. Lyrically, it touches on healing through connection—whether spiritual or literal. The song feels like a tribute to those fleeting but powerful moments of human togetherness, where music and presence become a form of medicine.
Angel
“Angel” is one of the most emotionally vulnerable pieces on the EP. It takes the form of a quiet plea—for protection, for grace, for some kind of sign. The production is kept intentionally minimal, with just enough instrumentation to support McCulloch’s aching vocal delivery. The song’s real strength lies in its simplicity—there’s no posturing here, just raw feeling. It’s the emotional heart of the record, and it lingers long after it ends.
Silver Spoon
The closing track, “Silver Spoon,” shifts the focus outward, taking a more socio-political turn. McCulloch uses the metaphor of privilege to explore themes of entitlement, class, and self-awareness. It’s a bold closer—both musically and lyrically. There’s a slight edge to her delivery, signaling frustration but never losing composure. The arrangement builds subtly toward a quiet climax, ending the EP on a note that challenges the listener to reflect as much as she clearly has.
Alex McCulloch is a compelling addition to the singer-songwriter’s discography, offering a nuanced exploration of personal and societal themes. The EP’s intimate storytelling and melodic compositions make it a resonant listen for those seeking depth and authenticity in music.
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